I’ve accepted an invitation to present 2 keynotes and a workshop in Oslo, Norway, at the Learning Festival conference. (25-26 April.

The invitation came from Ingebjørg (Conference convenor), a person I was introduced to, over 10 years ago while working at the University of Waikato. We connected then, as we do now with our shared interest in advancing the uptake of Appreciative Inquiry as a strengths-based strategy for growth and change. These interests are caught and taught in my book on Relational Leadership in Education (Routledge, 2019).

The other conference convenor was Professor Kenneth Gergen, the champion of ‘social constructionist’ theory and practice. I regularly draw on his work in ‘an introduction to social constructionism’ and ‘relational beings’.

Pauline and I have named the date of my retirement from Flinders (3 days after turning 60!). I have to say that I am really excited by the decision, this being a transition to new possibilities which includes more time with our adult children and grandchildren.

Stepping back, I point to my new book, ‘Relational Leadership in Education’ as my last major work in my time at Flinders.

I know that I have at least 3 more co-authored books in me. I have started writing with others to this end; all around Relational leadership in practice that I am keen to get back to. My co-authors constantly ‘live out relational sensibility’s’ in their everyday lives. More to this on another occasion.

What else? Not sure but we do have aspirations to proactively engage with individuals, schools and organisations towards relational outcomes be that through

Presenting on educational leadership

Advice and guidance

Mentoring individuals

Coaching leaders & leadership teams

Facilitating the construction of school wide professional development.

Early days I know, but educational purposes and practices will be an ongoing concern that remains as a thread in my life.

So I put it to you- in the spirit of celebrating a retirement – what other activities do you suggest we explore?